DAYSOUT
Arriving into Bath by steam somehow feels entirely appropriate. Few cities reward wandering quite like this UNESCO World Heritage destination. Honey-coloured Georgian crescents, elegant terraces, independent boutiques and bustling cafés encourage an afternoon of exploration before it is time to return to the station, where our locomotive patiently awaited the homeward journey.
As daylight softened beyond the windows, tables were already reset for the evening and the atmosphere subtly shifted towards fine dining. A selection of breads from Hawarden Estate Bakery opened proceedings before a starter of smoked mackerel rillettes arrived. Rich yet delicately smoked, it was lifted beautifully by ribbons of pickled cucumber, a fragrant herb dressing and peppery sorrel leaves, the freshness of which cut neatly through the richness of the fish.
The main course celebrated British produce at its seasonal best. A duo of lamb paired meltingly tender braised shoulder with beautifully roasted rump, each offering contrasting textures while sharing the same depth of flavour. Crushed newseason Cheshire potatoes soaked up a glossy redcurrant jus, while Wye Valley asparagus retained its bite alongside silky squash purée and vibrant seasonal vegetables. It was elegant cooking that would have felt perfectly at home in a fine country house restaurant.
A signature Great British Cheeseboard followed, showcasing carefully selected cheeses served with seasonal chutney and crackers, before dessert brought a wonderfully light conclusion to the meal. English berries sat alongside a bright pink crisp meringue, smooth vanilla cream, fragrant elderflower gel and a vibrant berry coulis, creating a dish that was fresh, balanced and unmistakably British.
Throughout dinner, a bottle of wine accompanied the meal, while the service never faltered. Glasses were quietly replenished, courses arrived with impressive precision despite the gentle movement of the train, and every member of the onboard team delivered hospitality with warmth and effortless professionalism.
There is, of course, a novelty to dining aboard a moving steam train. Yet before long that novelty gently dissipates. Instead, it simply becomes an exceptional restaurant with ever-changing scenery outside the window. Open countryside gives way to rivers and market towns before the familiar landscapes of Kent gradually reappear as dusk settles beyond the glass.
Steam Dreams reminds us that travel itself should be something to savour. The destination undoubtedly matters, but so too does everything in between. Good food tastes a little better when accompanied by changing landscapes. Conversation flows more easily without traffic to navigate or departure lounges to endure. Even time seems to slow to the steady rhythm of the rails.
As Duke of Gloucester eased away beyond Reading and our modern locomotive resumed the final miles back into Ashford, there was a quiet appreciation throughout the carriage for the experience we’ d just shared. For a few hours, travel had become something to be enjoyed rather than simply endured, and we were all reminded that sometimes nostalgia and a slower pace is exactly what we all need.
Steam Dreams’ Pullman Dining Experience on the Ashford to Bath route starts from £ 465pp including breakfast, mid-morning pastries, a four-course dinner, bottle of wine and full onboard hospitality. Kentish onboarding points also include Bromley South and Tonbridge.
steamdreams. co. uk thesteamdreamsrailco
© Mark Walker www. insidekent. co. uk • 53